Many women become temporarily depressed during pregnancy. Between life, hormonal and physical changes taking place, many women find they are experiencing depression for the first time in their lives. However, others have dealt with chronic depression, months or years before becoming pregnant. These women are suffering from major depressive disorder. Our daughter is one of those who suffers from depression during pregnancy. Thinking positively, waiting it out, or merely dealing with the depression is not an option.However, most doctors are reluctant to prescribe anti-depressants during this period. Many opt to forgo medicine during pregnancy, for fear of it interfering with the baby's development. There are treatment options for women suffering from major depressive disorder that do not include traditional medications. Medication are an option as a last resort.
Therapy
Counseling is often a part of treatment for depression. Our daughter generally goes once a month to be followed by a therapist, who checks her symptoms and decides if treatment is on course. However, many therapists ask pregnant women to come to counseling more often. For those choosing to not take medication during pregnancy, frequent therapy ensures that any problems or worsening of symptoms can be taken care of immediately. A therapist does not prescribe medication and will refer the client to a Psychiatrist, who can prescribe anti depressants and other medicines as needed.
Alternative Treatments
Herbs and supplements exist that have been proven to help alleviate depression symptoms. Some of these include St Johns Wort, 5 HTP and Omega 3 Fatty acids. It is important to check with an Ob/Gyn to verify that these medicines are safe to take during pregnancy. Herbs and supplements that do not cross the placental barrier or do so in smaller quantities are the best choice. If doing internet research, rely on reputable sites connected with a major medical facility or published research on the topic. However, the last resort for information should be the individual's doctor.
Some doctors prescribe a light therapy box to treat depression, however this generally proves more effective for Seasonal Affective Disorder.(SAD) SAD is depression brought on by a lack of sunlight and usually occurs during winter months or in areas that receive very little sunlight. The light from the box is thought to affect brain chemicals that are directly related to depression. Therefore, many therapists and Psychiatrists prescribe light therapy for those not suffering from SAD.
Safer Anti- Depressants
If symptoms are severe or a doctor feels medication is necessary, there are options that are safer for the baby and the Mom during pregnancy. Generally, two classes of antidepressants are prescribed during pregnancy. Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil are prescribed in addition to a select choice of Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor medicines, such as Prozac. It is important to notice that research has shown possible birth defects related to antidepressants. Severe depression might necessitate medication in order to protect the life of the Mother.
Depression is a serious medical issue,especially during depression when the health of the Mother is directly related to the health of the baby. There is no need to suffer with depression during pregnancy when treatment options exist. If you or a loved one find yourself dealing with depression during pregnancy, inform your Ob/ Gyn who can refer you to a therapist or Psychiatrist.
Therapy
Counseling is often a part of treatment for depression. Our daughter generally goes once a month to be followed by a therapist, who checks her symptoms and decides if treatment is on course. However, many therapists ask pregnant women to come to counseling more often. For those choosing to not take medication during pregnancy, frequent therapy ensures that any problems or worsening of symptoms can be taken care of immediately. A therapist does not prescribe medication and will refer the client to a Psychiatrist, who can prescribe anti depressants and other medicines as needed.
Alternative Treatments
Herbs and supplements exist that have been proven to help alleviate depression symptoms. Some of these include St Johns Wort, 5 HTP and Omega 3 Fatty acids. It is important to check with an Ob/Gyn to verify that these medicines are safe to take during pregnancy. Herbs and supplements that do not cross the placental barrier or do so in smaller quantities are the best choice. If doing internet research, rely on reputable sites connected with a major medical facility or published research on the topic. However, the last resort for information should be the individual's doctor.
Some doctors prescribe a light therapy box to treat depression, however this generally proves more effective for Seasonal Affective Disorder.(SAD) SAD is depression brought on by a lack of sunlight and usually occurs during winter months or in areas that receive very little sunlight. The light from the box is thought to affect brain chemicals that are directly related to depression. Therefore, many therapists and Psychiatrists prescribe light therapy for those not suffering from SAD.
Safer Anti- Depressants
If symptoms are severe or a doctor feels medication is necessary, there are options that are safer for the baby and the Mom during pregnancy. Generally, two classes of antidepressants are prescribed during pregnancy. Tricyclic antidepressants such as Elavil are prescribed in addition to a select choice of Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor medicines, such as Prozac. It is important to notice that research has shown possible birth defects related to antidepressants. Severe depression might necessitate medication in order to protect the life of the Mother.
Depression is a serious medical issue,especially during depression when the health of the Mother is directly related to the health of the baby. There is no need to suffer with depression during pregnancy when treatment options exist. If you or a loved one find yourself dealing with depression during pregnancy, inform your Ob/ Gyn who can refer you to a therapist or Psychiatrist.
